The Importance of Accessing and Maintaining Your IU Health Medical Records
Imagine visiting a healthcare provider who has no information whatsoever about you- that will be frustrating and even worse, life-threatening. It is essential to maintain your medical records as it helps healthcare professionals provide you with the necessary care you need. Access to your medical information is now more comfortable than ever thanks to the electronic medical record (EMR) system, which stores patient information electronically.
Benefits of Accessing Your Medical Records
Accessing your medical records can be empowering as it enables you to take control of your health care. You can examine your medical history, which can help you make informed decisions about your health care. You can also show the data to a specialist to obtain a second opinion or even challenge a diagnosis.
In addition to being more informed, having access to your medical records can also provide added convenience. For instance, if you lose your prescription or need a copy of your medical records for another healthcare provider or insurance company, you can easily retrieve it through IU health’s MyChart system without having to visit the hospital physically.
Maintaining Your Medical Records
Maintaining accurate medical records is a joint responsibility between the patient and their caregivers. IU Health maintains patient electronic health records, and patients should ensure that this information is updated and correct. Keeping your medical records up-to-date helps healthcare professionals make better decisions about your care, and it can help identify potential healthcare problems early on.
The benefits of maintaining your medical information go beyond personal convenience. The quality and continuity of your health care can improve when your physicians have access to accurate, up-to-date information.
Ensuring the Security of Your Medical Records
Understandably, you may be apprehensive about storing your medical information electronically due to security concerns. However, IU Health takes patient privacy seriously and has measures in place to ensure data security. Additionally, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protect electronic medical records and determine who can access them.
Furthermore, electronic medical record systems are more secure compared to paper medical records. Paper records are susceptible to theft, damage, and loss. Since electronic records are password protected, only authorized individuals can access the information, ensuring the information is confidential and secure.
Conclusion
Accessing and maintaining your IU Health medical records is vital to your health. It is essential to understand the benefits of electronic medical records and to keep your records up-to-date to help healthcare professionals deliver the best possible care. Moreover, IU Health has security measures in place to protect your medical records. Take advantage of the MyChart system and empower yourself by being informed about your health care.
